Just Stop Oil Activists Sentenced for M25 Protest

Five activists from the Just Stop Oil campaign, including co-founder Roger Hallam, were sentenced to prison terms ranging from four to five years for organizing protests that blocked London's M25 highway, incurring economic costs and significant disruptions. The activists were convicted of conspiracy to cause public nuisance after climbing gantries to disrupt traffic, leading to criticism from environmental agencies and scientists. Judge Christopher Hehir described the activists as transitioning from concerned campaigners to fanatics, with the protests being labeled an unprecedented disruption. The sentencing, considered the longest for non-violent protest in British history, sparked controversy over judicial handling and the activists' treatment during the trial.